Process for removing mineral impurities from coals and oil shales

US4804390A · kind A · utility

Inventors

• Robert Lloyd · Forbes, AU
• Maxwell J. Turner · Forbes, AU

Key dates

• Filing date: Jul 30, 1984
• Grant date: Feb 14, 1989
• Expiry date: Jul 30, 2004

Classification

• Technology area (CPC C): Chemistry; Metallurgy
• CPC primary: C10L9/02
• WIPO field: Basic materials chemistry
• WIPO sector: Chemistry

Abstract

A process for removing mineral impurities such as metal oxides from coal and shale oil structures is disclosed. The process is carried out by subjecting crushed coal or shale to a hydrocarbon fluoride leaching solution, separating the HF leach liquor from the coal or shale, washing the coal or shale with water, leaching the washed coal or shale with hydrogen chloride solution, separating the HCl leach liquor from the coal or shale, washing the coal or shale with water, and removing residual impurities from the treated coal or shale by heating under a vacuum. The process allows for the recovery of carbons and hydrocarbons of high purity from coal or shale which do not require expensive emission control equipment when combusted.